Deoxidation of Copper Alloys

Deoxidation of Copper Alloys

Deoxidation of Copper Alloys

The deoxidation of copper alloys involves removing the oxygen using a chemical process, usually other metals. As the oxygen and other gases are removed from the metal, certain properties are either enhanced or decreased. For example, when Phosphor is added to bronze alloys, it reacts by removing the oxygen content from the metal which can improve strength and increase it’s properties for conducting heat and electricity.

Benefits of Copper Deoxidation

When copper is left in its pure state, it is prone to being too porous and developing cracks along the surface, which can make it extremely difficult to use for casting as well as other applications. Removing the oxygen and other gasses by mixing a small percentage of another metal, like nickel or boron can alleviate these issues.

Achieve Certain Electrical Conductivity Properties

Copper is known for its electrical conductivity and is often used for electrical wiring and certain computer parts. However, if copper is mixed with beryllium or zinc, it does not spark, and it is not magnetic. This makes it perfect for applications that require non-sparking tools or parts.

Achieve Certain Heat Resistance Properties

If heat resistance and thermal stability is the goal, copper can be deoxified with nickel or tin. This combination offers moderate strength along with excellent resistance to corrosion.

Adjust Hardness or Softness

Copper can be deoxified with beryllium or cobalt to adjust hardness. Beryllium copper compounds are extremely hard and durable, while copper cobalt compounds are softer and more malleable.

Improved Grain Structure

The size of the grains within the copper alloy has a direct effect on its strength and hardness. Smaller grains result in improved strength and hardness. For machining, a deoxified copper with larger grains is desired while copper alloy that is to be used as a finished product favors a smaller grain size.

Deoxified Copper Master Alloys from Belmont Metals

Our deoxidizers & degasifiers are specially formulated in order to achieve the attributes you desire. Depending on your needs, we can mix phosphor, lithium, zirconium, boron, and proprietary alloys we have designed as well as other metals into copper in order to improve its melting, casting and working properties so that you can create the perfect finished product.